biological explanations for sz - neurotransmitters

Question 1

how does dopamine link to schizophrenia?

Answer 1

• decreased dopamine in the mesocortical pathway is responsible for negative symptoms
• the lack of normal organisation, cognitive deficits and motivation is attributed to dopamine overactivity in the mesolymbic pathway

Question 2

how does amphetamines (drugs) link to schizophrenia?

Answer 2

• it is a dopamine agonist, stimulating nerve cells containing dopamine, causing the synapse to be flooded with the neurotransmitter
• large doses of the drug can cause psychosis (linking to positive symptoms)

HOWEVER - the drug also creates high alertness which is more of a symptom of mania

Question 3

how does glutamate link to schizophrenia?

Answer 3

• glutamate deficiencies lead to insomnia, memory loss, learning and cognitive issues and reduced neural process which also leads to probems concentrating (positive symptoms)

Question 4

how does serotonin link to schizophrenia?

Answer 4

• low levels are linked with depression, withdrawal and apathy (negative symptoms)
• regulates dopamine levels in the mesolymbic pathway, which explains the link to positive symptoms

Question 5

how does GABA link to schizophrenia?

Answer 5

• people with schizophrenia have low levels of GABA
• lower levels = more serious symptoms

Question 6

role of dopamine

Answer 6

• pleasure, addiction, movement and motivation

Question 7

role of glutamate

Answer 7

• involved in learning and memory
• regulates development and creation of nerve contacts

Question 8

role of serotonin

Answer 8

• contributes to wellbeing and happiness
• helps sleep cycle and digestive system regulation
• affected by exercise and light exposure

Question 9

role of GABA

Answer 9

• calms firing nerves in the CNS
• high levels of GABA improves focus
• contributes to motor control and vision